Christina Piper
My dad is extremely hardworking, and has always provided me with a sense of home, and security. However, the father that I am amazed by everyday is the man that I choose to be the father of my kids. The man that has missed so many Father’s Days, and the man that loves, provides for, and cares for his children even when he can not hold them.
This man goes to war because his country has asked. He leaves his home, his country, and his children to protect other countries, other homes, and other children – the children of strangers, and the children of U.S. parents. The parents that have seen their children leave for the same wars.
This man has left knowing that he will have to make up for lost time, and that he may not return at all. But do not mistake this for lack of love or uncaring. NO, do not do that. This man goes because he wants this world to be safe for those kids, his kids. He goes because if not him, who? He goes because his kids will see that he did not just sit back and let someone else stand up for him, his country, and his family. He goes even when he would rather stay and hold his babies.
I constantly worry that my kids will not know their father, especially when he is in and out of their lives so often. Sure, he has to re-learn bedtime routines, likes and dislikes, and favorite toys each and every time he returns. Sure, there is a power struggle, buttons are pushed and boundaries are established and tested, but he doesn’t back away from that fight either.
The worry of not knowing their father is put to rest for me, because how much more can he show them about who he is? He is showing them that you stand behind your word. You love as hard as you can, while you can. You do not take time together for granted. You fight for your country, your family, and your beliefs. You lead by example.
Happy Father’s Day, Dude. Happy Father’s Day to all of our guys home and away, and thank you for being Fathers that our children can be proud of.
